Press Release: 3/2/2026
Convention News
March 1, 2026
Congratulations to John Barros, the recently appointed Interim Executive Director of the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, which hosts hundreds of annual conventions and meetings that generate over $1 billion annually in economic impact for Boston and Massachusetts, while also enhancing the civic life of local communities. Formerly the Chief of Economic Development for the City of Boston, John brings 25 years of experience, focusing on initiatives to create jobs, strengthen tourism, train the workforce and revitalize neighborhoods.
In his new role, Barros will oversee MCCA’s venue and portfolio operations, including the flagship Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center in South Boston Seaport, John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center in Back Bay, MassMutual Center in Springfield and Lawn on D.
One of the Authority’s most popular conventions is coming up on March 15-17, as the Annual Seafood Expo North America returns to the Menino Center. Seafood purveyors from around the world gather in the massive exhibition hall to network and do business, meeting with seafood buyers, importers, exporters, wholesalers, restaurants, supermarkets, hotels, and other retail and foodservice companies.
The Seafood Expo attracts 18,000 people each year, and many of the exhibitors are from Massachusetts and New England as well as Ireland, Scotland and the Canadian Maritimes. A popular event at the Expo is the annual oyster shucking contest, won in 2025 by Dan Coll of Boston’s famous Union Oyster House.
Community events this spring include the Annual South Boston Citizen’s Association Dinner on March 13, followed by the South Boston Neighborhood House Gala on March 20. On April 16, the popular Boston Marathon Expo takes place at Hynes Convention Center in Back Bay, welcoming thousands of runners and fans to town for the iconic race.
In early May, one of Boston’s most popular outdoor event spaces, Lawn on D, opens right alongside the Menino Center in South Boston. Lawn on D is a perfect place for conventioneers and local residents to relax, listen to music, grab some food and drinks and try out lawn games including pickleball, bocce, ping-pong and giant chess sets. It stays open into October.